KSI has received a challenge for a boxing match from former footballer Phil Bardsley.
Bardsley is known for famously knocking out Wayne Rooney during a playful boxing spar in his kitchen back in 2015.
Bardsley, who retired from football in 2023 and transitioned to coaching, is now considering a career change to boxing.
The 39-year-old stated in an interview: “I would box anyone, including KSI. Despite a recent operation, I’m confident I can quickly regain my fitness in the gym. I’m eager to try boxing and believe I would enjoy the discipline and routine it brings.”
“I wouldn’t decline a fight on a Misfits event, but self-promotion isn’t really my style. We’ll see what happens.”
Bardsley’s football career included time at Manchester United from 2003 to 2008, after progressing through their academy. He also had loan spells at various clubs before playing for Sunderland, Stoke, Burnley, and finally Stockport County where he ended his playing career.
Bardsley is a boxing enthusiast and has watched Danny Simpson, a former teammate from Manchester United, venture into boxing. Simpson, 38, boxed against YouTuber Danny Aarons last August, resulting in a draw, and is continuing his boxing training.
KSI’s sparring partner says he snubbed Love Island return to focus on Misfits Boxing and reveals how hard YouTuber hits
Misfits Boxing, founded by KSI, is known for hosting crossover boxing matches featuring celebrities and influencers.
KSI, 31, is scheduled to fight MMA fighter Dillon Danis, also 31, in Manchester on March 29. Danis stepped in as a replacement for Wayne Bridge after KSI made comments referencing Bridge’s past issues with John Terry.
